Senior Supplier Quality Engineer II - Space Systems Subcontracts

About the role

Senior Supplier Quality Engineer II – Space Systems Subcontracts is based out of Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA. This role is responsible for the end-to-end quality of complex, high-value electro-mechanical box assemblies built by strategic subcontractors and integrated into Rocket Lab satellite programs.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years' experience in a regulated industry: Aerospace, Defense, Space, or similar.
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Aerospace, Mechanical, Mechatronic Engineering, or equivalent.
• Prior experience in a supplier quality or subcontract management role.
• Proficiency with GD&T, engineering drawing interpretation, and specification flow down.
• Direct experience managing external suppliers or subcontractors producing complex hardware deliverables.

Desired Qualifications

• Familiarity with satellite bus or payload subsystems: attitude control hardware (torque rods, reaction wheels), communication electronics (radios, transponders, antennas), flight computers, power systems, and battery assemblies.
• Understanding of space-grade component requirements: radiation tolerance, outgassing, COTS vs. space-qualified part selection, and derating practices per applicable standards (e.g., ECSS, MIL-STD-975).
• PCBA manufacturing and inspection knowledge: SMT, through-hole, IPC-A-610 Class 3 acceptability, conformal coating, and potting for space environments.
• PCBA test method fluency: ICT, flying probe, functional test, boundary scan, X-ray/AXI, AOI, and burn-in; ability to evaluate the adequacy of a subcontractor's test coverage strategy rather than just reviewing procedures.
• Experience with qualification and acceptance test programs for aerospace hardware: environmental stress screening (ESS), thermal-vacuum (TVAC), random vibration, shock, EMI/EMC per MIL-STD-461 or equivalent.
• Experience managing subcontractors that design-and-build complete deliverable assemblies (not just fabrication-to-print suppliers) — including managing the interface between subcontractor design authority and Rocket Lab system requirements.
• Knowledge of ESD controls, handling, and MSL compliance (IPC/JEDEC J-STD-033) for space-grade electronics.
• Counterfeit parts awareness and mitigation practices per AS5553/AS6081; experience with component traceability and approved source requirements.
• Structured problem-solving experience using 8D, A3, or equivalent RCA methodology.
• PPAP/APQP familiarity (PFD, PFMEA, Control Plan, FAIR); ability to adapt these frameworks to a space hardware development context.
• Statistical quality methods: SPC, process capability (Cp/Cpk), MSA/Gage R&R.

Additional Requirements

• Sit at desk and operate computer, keyboard and office equipment for extended periods.
• Use hands with dexterity to operate controls, tools and technical equipment, as needed.
• Read technical documents, drawings, and computer screens requiring close and distance vision.
• Move between buildings, labs, and work areas, as needed.
• Work in office and technical environments with occasional exposure to noise, dust and fumes in production areas.

Benefits

• Top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option.
• Dental and vision coverage.
• 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year.
• 11 paid holidays per year.
• Flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts.
• Paid parental leave.
• Disability insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)

$124,800 - $156,000 USD